OBITUARY: Laurence Helmer Melby

Laurence Helmer Melby, age 83, died Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rhinelander. He was born April 28, 1933, in Eau Claire to Carl and Anna (Langseth) Melby.

Laurence lived and attended school in Eau Claire until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1953 at the age of 20. He was a corporal for the 1014 Wheeled Vehicle Mechanics Division at Fort Meade, Md. After his discharge in 1955 Laurence married Margie (Jenkins) Melby on May 24, 1958 in Bundy. Laurence then took a job for the city of Rhinelander as a mechanic. He worked for the city 20 plus years and retired on his birthday in 1995.

Laurence loved his family over everything else. He did however have many special animals that kept him company. Laurence had a great sense of humor and loved to tell a good joke. He also enjoyed antique cars but most of all antique tractors especially his John Deere.

A memorial service will be held for Laurence Monday, Sept. 12, 2016 at 12 p.m. at the Carlson Funeral Home with Bruce Carlson officiating. A visitation will be held on Sunday, Sept. 11, 2016 at the Carlson Funeral Home from 4-7 p.m. Interment will follow in Forest Home Cemetery. You may leave your private condolences for the Melby family atwww.carlsonfh.com. The Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) is handling the arrangements for Melby family